Anatomical brace for dynamically stabilizing the elbow

ABSTRACT

An anatomical brace for dynamically stabilizing the elbow during elbow articulation, the anatomical brace comprising: a brace body comprising a distal portion for fitting over the forearm of a user and a proximal portion for fitting over the upper arm of a user; a hinge mechanism comprising a distal segment, a proximal segment and a pivot for pivotally connecting the distal segment and the proximal segment, the distal segment of the hinge mechanism being mounted to the distal portion of the brace body and the proximal segment of the hinge mechanism being mounted to the proximal portion of the brace body; a pivot cable guide mounted to the anterior portion of the pivot; an upper arm cable guide mounted to at least one of the proximal segment of the hinge mechanism and the proximal portion of the brace body, the upper arm cable guide being configured to change the direction of a cable extending through the upper arm cable guide; an ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide mounted to the brace body and configured to direct a cable extending through the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide over the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) and toward the distal portion of the brace body; and a cable having a first end and a second end; the first end of the cable being mounted to the distal segment of the hinge mechanism, the second end of the cable being mounted to the distal portion of the brace body, and the cable being routed proximally along the distal segment of the hinge mechanism, through the pivot cable guide, proximally along the proximal segment of the hinge mechanism, through the upper arm cable guide, and through the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide; wherein, when the anatomical brace is mounted to the arm of a user so that the distal portion of the brace body is secured to the forearm of the user, and the proximal portion of the brace body is secured to the upper arm of the user, and when the elbow thereafter moves to full extension, the cable is tensioned, whereby to apply a force to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the user, and when the elbow thereafter moves to full flexion, the cable is relaxed, so that the force applied to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is released.

REFERENCE TO PENDING PRIOR PATENT APPLICATION

This patent application claims benefit of pending prior U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 62/538,042, filed Jul. 28, 2017 by SportsMedicine Sciences, LLC and Andrew Blecher for ANATOMICAL BRACE FORDYNAMICALLY STABILIZING THE ELBOW (Attorney's Docket No. BLECHER-4PROV), which patent application is hereby incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to anatomical braces in general, and moreparticularly to anatomical braces for dynamically stabilizing the elbow,especially during overhead throwing, other overhead activities and/orracquet sports, so as to protect the elbow from injury.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Baseball players and other athletes are at risk of elbow injuries due tothe valgus stresses on the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) during elbowflexion (e.g., such as during the cocking and acceleration phases ofthrowing), and are also at risk of elbow injuries due to the snappingforces on the elbow from overextension (e.g., such as during the releaseand follow-through phases of throwing). See FIG. 1. These valgusstresses and snapping forces can lead to injuries such as ulnarcollateral ligament (UCL) tears, growth plate injuries, stressfractures, chondral injuries and osteochondritis dessicans. All of theseinjuries may lead to pain, disability, decreased athletic performance,time missed from playing a sport and, in severe cases, career-endingsurgery.

Conventional elbow braces are configured to provide a limit to theextension of the elbow, e.g., such as during the phases of throwing. Byonly providing a limit to the extension of the elbow during elbowmovement (e.g., such as during the phases of throwing), conventionalelbow braces do not provide support to the ulnar collateral ligament(UCL) during other phases of elbow motion (i.e., conventional elbowbraces do not provide variable tension as the wearer moves their arm,such as during throwing). Therefore an individual wearing a conventionalelbow brace is still at risk of elbow injuries due to the valgusstresses on the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) during elbow flexion(e.g., such as during the cocking and acceleration phases of throwing).

Thus there is a need for an elbow brace that provides a dynamicallyadjustable force to protect the elbow from forces that may cause injuryduring all of the phases of elbow motion, e.g., such as during all ofthe phases of throwing. The elbow brace must be comfortable andlow-profile so as to prevent disruption of the mechanics of the elbowduring a throwing motion (or other motion) so that the elbow brace doesnot affect the performance of a wearer.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention comprises the provision and use of a novelanatomical brace for dynamically stabilizing the elbow, especiallyduring overhead throwing, other overhead activities and/or racquetsports, so as to protect the elbow from injury.

Among other things, the novel anatomical brace provides a dynamicallyadjustable force to protect the elbow from forces that may cause injuryduring all of the phases of elbow motion, e.g., such as during all ofthe phases of throwing. And the novel anatomical brace is configured tobe comfortable and low-profile so as to prevent disruption of themechanics of the elbow during a throwing motion (or other motion) sothat the elbow brace does not affect the performance of a wearer.

In one form of the invention, there is provided an anatomical brace fordynamically stabilizing the elbow during elbow articulation, saidanatomical brace comprising:

a brace body comprising a distal portion for fitting over the forearm ofa user and a proximal portion for fitting over the upper arm of a user;

a hinge mechanism comprising a distal segment, a proximal segment and apivot for pivotally connecting said distal segment and said proximalsegment, said distal segment of said hinge mechanism being mounted tosaid distal portion of said brace body and said proximal segment of saidhinge mechanism being mounted to said proximal portion of said bracebody;

a pivot cable guide mounted to the anterior portion of said pivot;

an upper arm cable guide mounted to at least one of said proximalsegment of said hinge mechanism and said proximal portion of said bracebody, said upper arm cable guide being configured to change thedirection of a cable extending through said upper arm cable guide;

an ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide mounted to said bracebody and configured to direct a cable extending through said ulnarcollateral ligament (UCL) cable guide over the ulnar collateral ligament(UCL) and toward said distal portion of said brace body; and

a cable having a first end and a second end;

said first end of said cable being mounted to said distal segment ofsaid hinge mechanism, said second end of said cable being mounted tosaid distal portion of said brace body, and said cable being routedproximally along said distal segment of said hinge mechanism, throughsaid pivot cable guide, proximally along said proximal segment of saidhinge mechanism, through said upper arm cable guide, and through saidulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide;

wherein, when said anatomical brace is mounted to the arm of a user sothat said distal portion of said brace body is secured to the forearm ofthe user, and said proximal portion of said brace body is secured to theupper arm of the user, and when the elbow thereafter moves to fullextension, said cable is tensioned, whereby to apply a force to theulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the user, and when the elbowthereafter moves to full flexion, said cable is relaxed, so that theforce applied to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is released.

In another form of the invention, there is provided an anatomical bracefor dynamically stabilizing the elbow during elbow articulation, saidanatomical brace comprising:

a brace body comprising a distal portion for fitting over the forearm ofa user and a proximal portion for fitting over the upper arm of a user;

a hinge mechanism comprising a distal segment, a proximal segment and apivot for pivotally connecting said distal segment and said proximalsegment, said distal segment of said hinge mechanism being mounted tosaid distal portion of said brace body and said proximal segment of saidhinge mechanism being mounted to said proximal portion of said bracebody;

a pivot cable guide mounted to the posterior portion of said pivot;

an upper arm cable guide mounted to at least one of said proximalsegment of said hinge mechanism and said proximal portion of said bracebody, said upper arm cable guide being configured to change thedirection of a cable extending through said upper arm cable guide;

an ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide mounted to said bracebody and configured to direct a cable extending through said ulnarcollateral ligament (UCL) cable guide over the ulnar collateral ligament(UCL) and toward said distal portion of said brace body;

a cable having a first end and a second end;

said first end of said cable being mounted to said distal segment ofsaid hinge mechanism, said second end of said cable being mounted tosaid distal portion of said brace body, and said cable being routedproximally along said distal segment of said hinge mechanism, throughsaid pivot cable guide, proximally along said proximal segment of saidhinge mechanism, through said upper arm cable guide, and through saidulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide;

a limiter cable guide mounted to the anterior portion of said pivot; and

a limiter cable having a first end and a second end;

said first end of said limiter cable being mounted to said distalsegment of said hinge mechanism, said second end of said limiter cablebeing mounted to said proximal segment of said hinge mechanism, and saidlimiter cable being routed through said limiter cable guide;

wherein, when said anatomical brace is mounted to the arm of a user sothat said distal portion of said brace body is secured to the forearm ofthe user, and said proximal portion of said brace body is secured to theupper arm of the user, and when the elbow thereafter moves to fullextension, said cable is tensioned, whereby to apply a force to theulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the user, and when the elbowthereafter moves to full flexion, said cable is relaxed, so that theforce applied to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is released.

In another form of the invention, there is provided a method fordynamically stabilizing the elbow during elbow articulation, said methodcomprising:

providing an anatomical brace, said anatomical brace comprising:

-   -   a brace body comprising a distal portion for fitting over the        forearm of a user and a proximal portion for fitting over the        upper arm of a user;    -   a hinge mechanism comprising a distal segment, a proximal        segment and a pivot for pivotally connecting said distal segment        and said proximal segment, said distal segment of said hinge        mechanism being mounted to said distal portion of said brace        body and said proximal segment of said hinge mechanism being        mounted to said proximal portion of said brace body;    -   a pivot cable guide mounted to the anterior portion of said        pivot;    -   an upper arm cable guide mounted to at least one of said        proximal segment of said hinge mechanism and said proximal        portion of said brace body, said upper arm cable guide being        configured to change the direction of a cable extending through        said upper arm cable guide;    -   an ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide mounted to said        brace body and configured to direct a cable extending through        said ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide over the ulnar        collateral ligament (UCL) and toward said distal portion of said        brace body; and    -   a cable having a first end and a second end;    -   said first end of said cable being mounted to said distal        segment of said hinge mechanism, said second end of said cable        being mounted to said distal portion of said brace body, and        said cable being routed proximally along said distal segment of        said hinge mechanism, through said pivot cable guide, proximally        along said proximal segment of said hinge mechanism, through        said upper arm cable guide, and through said ulnar collateral        ligament (UCL) cable guide;    -   wherein, when said anatomical brace is mounted to the arm of a        user so that said distal portion of said brace body is secured        to the forearm of the user, and said proximal portion of said        brace body is secured to the upper arm of the user, and when the        elbow thereafter moves to full extension, said cable is        tensioned, whereby to apply a force to the ulnar collateral        ligament (UCL) of the user, and when the elbow thereafter moves        to full flexion, said cable is relaxed, so that the force        applied to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is released;

fitting said distal portion of said brace body over the forearm of auser and said proximal portion of said brace body over the upper arm ofa user;

positioning said first end of said cable to said distal segment of saidhinge mechanism, and positioning said second end of said cable to saiddistal portion of said brace body; and

articulating the elbow.

In another form of the invention, there is provided a method fordynamically stabilizing the elbow during elbow articulation, said methodcomprising:

providing an anatomical brace, said anatomical brace comprising:

-   -   a brace body comprising a distal portion for fitting over the        forearm of a user and a proximal portion for fitting over the        upper arm of a user;    -   a hinge mechanism comprising a distal segment, a proximal        segment and a pivot for pivotally connecting said distal segment        and said proximal segment, said distal segment of said hinge        mechanism being mounted to said distal portion of said brace        body and said proximal segment of said hinge mechanism being        mounted to said proximal portion of said brace body;    -   a pivot cable guide mounted to the posterior portion of said        pivot;    -   an upper arm cable guide mounted to at least one of said        proximal segment of said hinge mechanism and said proximal        portion of said brace body, said upper arm cable guide being        configured to change the direction of a cable extending through        said upper arm cable guide;    -   an ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide mounted to said        brace body and configured to direct a cable extending through        said ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide over the ulnar        collateral ligament (UCL) and toward said distal portion of said        brace body;    -   a cable having a first end and a second end;    -   said first end of said cable being mounted to said distal        segment of said hinge mechanism, said second end of said cable        being mounted to said distal portion of said brace body, and        said cable being routed proximally along said distal segment of        said hinge mechanism, through said pivot cable guide, proximally        along said proximal segment of said hinge mechanism, through        said upper arm cable guide, and through said ulnar collateral        ligament (UCL) cable guide;    -   a limiter cable guide mounted to the anterior portion of said        pivot; and    -   a limiter cable having a first end and a second end;    -   said first end of said limiter cable being mounted to said        distal segment of said hinge mechanism, said second end of said        limiter cable being mounted to said proximal segment of said        hinge mechanism, and said limiter cable being routed through        said limiter cable guide;    -   wherein, when said anatomical brace is mounted to the arm of a        user so that said distal portion of said brace body is secured        to the forearm of the user, and said proximal portion of said        brace body is secured to the upper arm of the user, and when the        elbow thereafter moves to full extension, said cable is        tensioned, whereby to apply a force to the ulnar collateral        ligament (UCL) of the user, and when the elbow thereafter moves        to full flexion, said cable is relaxed, so that the force        applied to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is released;

fitting said distal portion of said brace body over the forearm of auser and said proximal portion of said brace body over the upper arm ofa user;

positioning said first end of said cable to said distal segment of saidhinge mechanism, and positioning said second end of said cable to saiddistal portion of said brace body, and positioning said first end ofsaid limiter cable to said distal segment of said hinge mechanism, andpositioning said second end of said limiter cable to said proximalsegment of said hinge mechanism; and

articulating the elbow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other objects and features of the present invention will bemore fully disclosed or rendered obvious by the following detaileddescription of the preferred embodiments of the invention, which is tobe considered together with the accompanying drawings wherein likenumbers refer to like parts, and further wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing the phases of throwing;

FIGS. 2-7 are schematic views showing an anatomical brace formed inaccordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic views showing another anatomical braceformed in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a schematic view showing still another anatomical brace formedin accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 9-14 are schematic views showing yet another anatomical braceformed in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 15 is a schematic view showing another anatomical brace formed inaccordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention comprises the provision and use of a novelanatomical brace for dynamically stabilizing the elbow, especiallyduring overhead throwing, other overhead activities and/or racquetsports, so as to protect the elbow from injury.

Among other things, the novel anatomical brace provides a dynamicallyadjustable force to protect the elbow from forces that may cause injuryduring all of the phases of elbow motion, e.g., such as during all ofthe phases of throwing. And the novel anatomical brace is configured tobe comfortable and low-profile so as to prevent disruption of themechanics of the elbow during a throwing motion (or other motion) sothat the elbow brace does not affect the performance of a wearer.

Construction of the Novel Anatomical Brace

Looking first at FIGS. 2-7, in one preferred form of the invention,there is provided a novel anatomical brace 5 for dynamically stabilizingthe elbow during overhead throwing so as to protect the elbow frominjury. Anatomical brace 5 generally comprises a brace body 10comprising a distal portion 15, a proximal portion 20, a central opening25 and one half 30 (FIG. 4) of a hook-and-mesh (e.g., Velcro®) fastener.Brace body 10 is flexible, and is preferably formed out of a flexiblematerial such as a woven fabric, a synthetic rubber, etc. In onepreferred form of the invention, brace body 10 is an elbow sleeve formedout of a breathable lightweight elastic fabric which provides lightcompression to the forearm, elbow and upper arm of the user.

A distal strap 35 (FIG. 3), having a first end 40 and a second end 45,is mounted on distal portion 15 of brace body 10 and is configured to besecured around the forearm of a wearer so as to adjustably fasten bracebody 10 to the forearm of a wearer. One half 46 of a hook-and-mesh(e.g., Velcro®) fastener is fixed to the first end 40 of distal strap35, and the other half 47 of a hook-and-mesh (e.g., Velcro®) fastener isfixed to second end 45 of distal strap 35, such that distal strap 35 canbe wrapped over distal portion 15 of brace body 10 and secured in place,whereby to secure distal portion 15 of brace body 10 to the forearm ofthe user.

A proximal strap 50 (FIG. 3), having a first end 55 and a second end 60,is mounted on proximal portion 20 of brace body 10 and is configured tobe secured around the bicep area of the wearer so as to adjustablyfasten brace body 10 to the arm of a wearer. One half 61 of ahook-and-mesh (e.g., Velcro®) fastener is fixed to first end 55 ofproximal strap 50, and the other half 62 of a hook-and-mesh (e.g.,Velcro®) fastener is fixed to second end 60 of proximal strap 50, suchthat proximal strap 50 can be wrapped over proximal portion 20 of bracebody 10 and secured in place, whereby to secure proximal portion 20 ofbrace body 10 to the upper arm of the wearer.

Central opening 25 (FIG. 3) of brace body 10 is configured to bepositioned in the antecubital area (i.e., the front crease of the elbow)of a wearer so that the material of brace body 10 does not bunch whenthe elbow is flexed (which could inhibit flexing of the elbow).

A hinge mechanism 65 is mounted on the lateral portion of brace body 10(i.e., on the radial side of the elbow). More particularly, hingemechanism 65 comprises a distal segment 70 and a proximal segment 75,with distal segment 70 being connected to proximal segment 75 at a pivot80. Distal segment 70 of hinge mechanism 65, and proximal segment 75 ofhinge mechanism 65, are each relatively stiff but have some degree offlexibility, and are preferably formed out of a plastic, or a carbonfiber, or a lightweight metal, etc. Pivot 80 of hinge mechanism 65 isrelatively frictionless (i.e., it is easily articulated) and ispreferably formed as an assembly comprising a central disc-shaped body81 (FIG. 3) to which both distal segment 70 and proximal segment 75 arepivotally attached. Alternatively, pivot 80 can comprise a simple “rivetpivot” or “screw pivot” of the sort well known in the art where distalsegment 70 and proximal segment 75 pivotally articulate relative to oneanother.

In one preferred form of the invention, hinge mechanism 65 comprises anarticulatable plastic structure and is sewn into brace body 10 on theradial side of the elbow.

It should be appreciated that the configuration of hinge mechanism 65 ispreferably low profile so as to prevent disruption of the mechanics ofthe elbow during a throwing motion (or other motion) so that the elbowbrace does not affect the movements of a wearer when flexing orextending the elbow.

A cover 85 (FIG. 2) is preferably mounted over hinge mechanism 65 so asto shield hinge mechanism 65 from inadvertently catching on clothing,etc. Cover 85 preferably comprises an opening 87 (FIG. 2) on theproximal portion of cover 85 and a slit 90 over distal segment 70 ofhinge mechanism 65. In one preferred form of the invention, cover 85 maybe formed out of the same material as brace body 10, or cover 85 may beformed out of a different material than brace body 10. In one preferredform of the invention, cover 85 is sewn onto brace body 10. It should beappreciated that opening 87 of cover 85 is configured to allow a cable(see below) to pass through cover 85, and slit 90 of cover 85 isconfigured to allow access to the interior of cover 85, and hence accessto distal segment 70 of hinge mechanism 65.

In an alternative form of the invention, cover 85 is removably mountedto brace body 10, e.g., via one or more hook-and-mesh (e.g., Velcro®)fasteners, so as to selectively cover/uncover hinge mechanism 65.

A first cable guide (e.g., a pivot guide) 95 (FIG. 3) is mounted topivot 80 on the lateral portion of anatomical brace 5.

A second cable guide (e.g., a brace tunnel) 100 (FIG. 3) is mounted toproximal segment 75 of hinge mechanism 65, also on the lateral portionof anatomical brace 5. Where second cable guide 100 comprises a bracetunnel, the brace tunnel may be formed out of the same material as bracebody 10, or the brace tunnel may be formed out of a different materialthan brace body 10. In one preferred form of the invention, second cableguide 100 forms a 90 degree angle. It will be appreciated that in onepreferred form of the invention, second cable guide 100 is partiallycovered by cover 85, with a portion of second cable guide 100 protrudingfrom opening 87 of cover 85.

A third cable guide (e.g., a brace tunnel) 105 (FIG. 4) is mounted toproximal portion 20 of brace body 10 on the medial portion of anatomicalbrace 5. Where third cable guide 105 comprises a brace tunnel, the bracetunnel may be formed out of the same material as brace body 10, or thebrace tunnel may be formed out of a different material than brace body10.

A fourth cable guide (e.g., a brace tunnel) 110 (FIG. 4) is mounted toproximal portion 20 of brace body 10, also on the medial portion ofanatomical brace 5. Where fourth cable guide 110 comprises a bracetunnel, the brace tunnel may be formed out of the same material as bracebody 10, or the brace tunnel may be formed out of a different materialthan brace body 10. In one preferred form of the invention, fourth cableguide 110 forms a 90 degree angle.

A fifth cable guide (e.g., a brace tunnel) 115 (FIG. 4) is mounted tobrace body 10, also on the medial portion of anatomical brace 5, andextends over the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL). Where fifth cableguide 115 comprises a brace tunnel, the brace tunnel may be formed outof the same material as brace body 10, or the brace tunnel may be formedout of a different material than brace body 10. In one preferred form ofthe invention, fifth cable guide 115 comprises a fabric which is sewnonto brace body 10.

A cable 120 (FIGS. 3 and 4) runs along hinge mechanism 65, crosses overthe biceps or triceps of the wearer, and then over the ulnar collateralligament (UCL) of the wearer to the forearm of the wearer, so that cable120 tightens during elbow extension and relaxes during elbow flexion.More particularly, cable 120 comprises a first end 125 (FIG. 3) which isadjustably secured to distal segment 70 of hinge mechanism 65, and asecond end 130 (FIG. 4) which is adjustably secured (see below) to themedial distal portion 15 of brace body 10 (see below), with theintermediate portion of cable 120 extending proximally along hingemechanism 65, through first cable guide 95 (FIG. 3), proximally alongproximal segment 75 of hinge mechanism 65, through second cable guide100 (FIG. 3), across the biceps or triceps of the wearer, through thirdcable guide 105 (FIG. 4), through fourth cable guide 110 (FIG. 4), andthen through fifth cable guide 115 (FIG. 4), with cable 120 passing overthe ulnar collateral ligament (UCL).

First end 125 of cable 120 is preferably adjustably fixed to distalsegment 70 of hinge mechanism 65 via an adjustable sliding terminationpoint 132 (FIG. 3), and second end 130 of cable 120 is preferablyadjustably fixed to a termination point 135 on distal portion 15 ofbrace body 10, e.g., via the other half 136 of a hook-and-mesh (e.g.,Velcro®) fastener which mates to the aforementioned one half 30 of ahook-and-mesh (e.g., Velcro®) fastener.

In other words:

one end of cable 120 is adjustably fixed to distal segment 70 of hingemechanism 65;

the body of cable 120 passes proximally along distal segment 70 of hingemechanism 65, through first cable guide 95 on the flexion side of pivot80, proximally along proximal segment 75 of hinge mechanism 65, enterssecond cable guide 100 and is redirected 90 degrees so as to passlaterally across the anterior biceps area to the opposite side of thearm (i.e., to the ulnar side of the arm), through third cable guide 105,enters fourth cable guide 110 and is redirected 90 degrees so as to passdistally back down the medial side of brace body 10, enters fifth cableguide 115 so that cable 120 is passed over the ulnar collateral ligament(UCL); and exits fifth cable guide 115 extending distally along theforearm; and

the second end of cable 120 is adjustably fixed to distal portion 15 ofbrace body 10. Specifically, as cable 120 passes through fifth cableguide 115, cable 120 travels along the ulnar side of the elbow,overlaying the region where the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) islocated.

By virtue of this construction, and as will hereinafter be discussed infurther detail, cable 120 is able to release tension when the elbowflexes and increase tension when the elbow extends. Furthermore, whencable 120 is tensioned, cable 120 applies a supportive compression tothe ulnar collateral ligament (UCL). Thus it will be seen that thepresent invention provides a hinged elbow brace with a cable systemwhere the cable passes along the length of the hinge, on one side of thehinge pivot, and with the cable overlying the ulnar collateral ligament(UCL). This unique design allows for tightening of the cable duringelbow extension so as to protect the elbow joint by limitingoverextension of the joint and by providing support to the ulnarcollateral ligament (UCL) during elbow extension; and provides forloosening of the cable during elbow flexion.

In one preferred form of the invention, cable 120 comprises anon-elastic first segment 141 which includes the aforementioned firstend 125, and an elastic second segment 142 which includes theaforementioned second end 130. First segment 141 transitions to secondsegment 142 at a transition zone 143. In one preferred form of theinvention, non-elastic first segment 141 comprises a non-stretchablemetal or plastic cable. And in one preferred form of the invention,elastic second segment 142 comprises an elastomeric cord or otherelastically-stretchable element.

Significantly, where cable 120 comprises a non-elastic first segment 141and an elastic second segment 142, cable 120 (and specifically elasticsecond segment 142 of cable 120) provides variable tension as the wearerflexes and extends their elbow, i.e., elastic second segment 142 ofcable 120 provides increasing elastic tension as the elbow extends (andthe tension on cable 120 is increased) and decreasing elastic tension asthe elbow flexes (and the tension in cable 120 is decreased). Alsosignificantly, elastic second segment 142 of cable 120 providesincreasing tension over the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) as the elbowextends, thereby providing increased support to the ulnar collateralligament (UCL) during elbow extension.

In one preferred form of the invention, a connector 144 (FIG. 4) isdisposed at transition zone 143 so as to secure first segment 141 ofcable 120 to second segment 142 of cable 120. This arrangement isdesirable since it allows one second segment 142 (comprising a specificdegree of elasticity and/or a specific tensile strength) to be replacedby another second segment 142 (comprising a different degree ofelasticity and/or a different tensile strength). In this way, usershaving different physical attributes (e.g., different physicalcharacteristics, different physical strengths, etc.) can select aparticular second segment 142 to create a complete cable 120 having thedesired characteristics.

And in one preferred form of the invention, connector 144 can include atension sensor 145 for detecting and reporting the tension occurring attransition zone 143. By way of example but not limitation, tensionsensor 145 at connector 144 can be a tension sensor of the sortconfigured to detect and wirelessly report (e.g., via Bluetooth, WiFi,etc.) the tension occurring at transition zone 143 to a remote unit,e.g., a smartphone, a smartwatch, a tablet, a laptop, etc., where thesmartphone, smartwatch, tablet, laptop, etc. is running an applet forassessing and displaying information relating to the tension detected attransition zone 143. In one preferred form of the invention, thesmartphone, smartwatch, tablet, laptop, etc. is connected to theinternet via a cellular and/or WiFi communication link to enableuploading of the information relating to the tension detected by tensionsensor 145 at transition zone 143.

The ability to monitor the tension occurring at transition zone 143 ofcable 120 can be highly advantageous, since as the user's musclesfatigue, the user is able to provide less support for the joint, so thattension at transition zone 143 increases. Therefore, increasing tensionat transition zone 143 is indicative of increasing muscle fatigue in theuser, which can be important for deciding when to stop or reduce jointflexing (e.g., in the case of a baseball pitcher, when to take thepitcher out of the game).

If desired, tension sensor 145 can be disposed at a location other thanconnector 144, e.g., tension sensor 145 can be mounted to another partof cable 120 (e.g., tension sensor 145 can be mounted to non-elasticfirst segment 141 of cable 120, or tension sensor 145 can be mounted toelastic second segment 142 of cable 120), or tension sensor 145 can bemounted at the point at which non-elastic first segment 141 is securedto distal segment 70 of hinge mechanism 65, or tension sensor 145 can bemounted at the point at which elastic second segment 142 is secured todistal portion 15 of brace body 10, etc.

The adjustable nature of the elasticity of the length of second segment142 of cable 120, as well as the adjustable securement points of firstend 125 and second end 130 of cable 120 on brace body 10, allows for theoptimal amount of dynamically-adjustable tension to be established inanatomical brace 5 during extension of the elbow.

It should be appreciated that first end 125 of cable 120 is adjustablymounted to distal segment 70 of hinge mechanism 65 such that theposition of first end 125 of cable 120 can be adjusted relative todistal segment 70 of hinge mechanism 65, whereby to change the angleand/or tension of cable 120, in order to accommodate a wearer's anatomy.In one preferred form of the invention, first end 125 of cable 120 isadjustably mounted to distal segment 70 of hinge mechanism 65 using arail, with an adjustable fixation element (e.g., a set screw) being usedto lock first end 125 of cable 120 in place at a desired position alongthe rail. More particularly, in this form of the invention, distalsegment 70 of hinge mechanism 65 comprises a rail 146, and first end 125of cable 120 is mounted to an adjustable fixation element (e.g., a setscrew) 147—adjustable fixation element (e.g., set screw) 147 is slidalong rail 146 until first end 125 of cable 120 is at a desired locationrelative to distal segment 70 of hinge mechanism 65, and then adjustablefixation element (e.g., set screw) 147 is locked in position on rail146.

It should also be appreciated that second end 130 of cable 120 isadjustably mounted to termination point 135 on the medial distal portion15 of brace body 10 such that the position of second end 130 of cable120 can be adjusted relative to medial distal portion 15 of brace body10, whereby to change the angle and/or tension of cable 120, in order toaccommodate the wearer's anatomy. In one preferred form of theinvention, second end 130 of cable 120 is adjustably mounted totermination point 135 using a hook-and-mesh (e.g., Velcro®) fastener. Byway of example but not limitation, one half 136 of a hook-and-mesh(e.g., Velcro®) fastener is fixed to second end 130 of cable 120 and theother half 30 of a hook-and-mesh (e.g., Velcro®) fastener is mounted todistal portion 15 of brace body 10 as previously described.

It should be appreciated that many other mounting mechanisms (e.g., snapfasteners, cable clamps, cable tie-downs, etc.) may be used toadjustably mount the two ends of cable 120 to the remainder of thebrace.

Use of the Novel Anatomical Brace

In use, and still looking at FIGS. 2-7, anatomical brace 5 is firstsecured to a wearer by positioning brace body 10 over the elbow so thatcentral opening 25 of brace body 10 is in the antecubital area (i.e.,the front crease of the elbow) of the wearer. Note that when anatomicalbrace 5 is positioned in this manner about the elbow of a wearer, hingemechanism 65 will extend along the lateral portion of the elbow, and theinterior of the elbow is left substantially uncovered by anatomicalbrace 5. And note also that no hinge mechanism is disposed along themedial portion of the elbow.

Next, cable 120 has its first end 125 adjustably secured to the lateralportion of distal segment 70 of hinge mechanism 65, and second end 130of cable 120 is adjustably secured to the medial portion of distalportion 15 of brace body 10, with tension being adjusted as appropriate.

Distal strap 35 is then wrapped around the forearm portion of brace body10, overlapping the joined first half 30 and second half 136 of thehook-and-mesh fastener securing second end 130 of cable 120 to distalportion 15 of brace body 10, in order to further fix second end 130 ofcable 120 into place. Then proximal strap 50 is wrapped around thebiceps portion of brace body 10 in order to further secure brace body 10to the wearer.

As a result, when the elbow thereafter moves to full extension, cable120 is tightened, whereby to apply a distal-to-proximal force on theelbow, and to apply a stabilizing force on the ulnar collateral ligament(UCL); and when the elbow thereafter moves to flexion, cable 120 isrelaxed, so that the forces applied to the elbow by cable 120 are alsorelaxed.

Alternative Constructions

In one alternative form the invention, an offset cam may be provided atpivot 80 of hinge mechanism 65 so as to allow for greater tensioning ofcable 120 during elbow extension and greater unloading of the tensionduring elbow flexion. See, for example, FIGS. 7A and 7B, which show acam 200 located at pivot 80: cam 200 allows for greater tensioning ofcable 120 during elbow extension (i.e., during transition from theposition of FIG. 7A to the position of FIG. 7B) and greater unloading ofthe tension during elbow flexion (i.e., during transition from theposition of FIG. 7B to the position of FIG. 7A).

In a similar way, and looking now at FIG. 8, there is shown analternative anatomical brace 5 which provides increased mechanicaladvantage during the cocking and acceleration phases of throwing (orduring other activities involving elbow flexion and extension). Thisform of the anatomical brace is generally similar to the anatomicalbrace shown in FIGS. 2-7, except that pivot 80 of hinge mechanism 65comprises an off-center pivot point 148. More particularly, off-centerpivot point 148 modifies the path of cable 120 during articulation ofthe elbow in order to provide increased mechanical advantage during thecocking and acceleration phases of throwing (or during other activitiesinvolving elbow flexion and extension).

In another alternative form of the invention, second cable guide 100 ofanatomical brace 5 may be configured conversely, so that cable 120 isdirected laterally across the posterior triceps area (rather thanlaterally across the anterior biceps area.

In another alternative form of the invention, hinge mechanism 65 ofanatomical brace 5 may be placed on the ulnar side of the elbow, withcable 120 running along the radial side of the elbow.

And in another alternative form of the invention, and looking now atFIGS. 9-14, there is shown an alternative anatomical brace 5 whichprovides additional ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) protection andadditional throwing power through the acceleration phase of throwing (oradditional extension power through the acceleration phase of elbowextension). This form of the anatomical brace is generally similar tothe anatomical brace shown in FIGS. 2-7, except that the anatomicalbrace comprises a second limiter cable 149, and the aforementioned cable120 is routed differently around pivot 80.

More particularly, second limiter cable 149 comprises a first end 150which is fixed to distal segment 70 of hinge mechanism 65, and a secondend 155 which is adjustably secured to proximal segment 75 of hingemechanism 65 (e.g., via a rail 156 and a fixation element (e.g., a setscrew) 157). The intermediate portion of second limiter cable 149 passesthrough the aforementioned first cable guide 95. Second limiter cable149 is formed out of an inelastic material. In essence, second limitercable 149 is configured to prevent full extension of the elbow of awearer, thus providing additional protection to a wearer from injuriesdue to overextension of the elbow. The extent of extension permitted bysecond limiter cable 149 is set by the length of second limiter cable149 and the point at which second limiter cable 149 is secured toproximal segment 75 of hinge mechanism 65.

In this form of the invention, cable 120 still comprises an inelasticfirst segment 141 and an elastic second segment 142, with inelasticfirst segment 141 transitioning to elastic second segment 142 attransition zone 143. However, in this form of the invention, inelasticfirst segment 141 of cable 120 runs through a cable guide 160 set alongthe posterior aspect of hinge mechanism 65. This construction stillallows for tightening of cable 120 during elbow flexion and loosening ofcable 120 during elbow extension. The tensioning during elbow flexionwill provide increased tension along the ulnar side of the elbow tofurther protect the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) against extremevalgus forces during elbow flexion. This construction will also providea wearer with additional power through the acceleration phase ofthrowing (or other elbow extension) as the elastic component of cable120 provides a mechanical force (i.e., a mechanical advantage) to helppull the forearm forward, whereby to increase acceleration and increasethrowing (or other elbow extension) power and velocity.

With this dual cable construction (i.e., one cable 149 anterior to pivot80 and one cable 120 posterior to pivot 80), anatomical brace 5 isdesigned to provide both superior protection of the ulnar collateralligament (UCL) and increased throwing power during the cocking andacceleration phases of throwing (or other activities which involve elbowextension), as well as protecting the elbow from overextension duringthe release and follow-through phases of throwing (or other activitieswhich involve elbow extension). Additionally, each cable can be adjustedindependently of the other so as to maximize functionality and to bemost specific to the individual needs of a wearer.

It should also be appreciated that the anatomical brace shown in FIGS.9-14 may also have an off-center pivot point construction (see, forexample, FIG. 15).

Modifications of the Preferred Embodiments

It should be understood that many additional changes in the details,materials, steps and arrangements of parts, which have been hereindescribed and illustrated in order to explain the nature of the presentinvention, may be made by those skilled in the art while still remainingwithin the principles and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An anatomical brace for dynamically stabilizingthe elbow during elbow articulation, said anatomical brace comprising: abrace body comprising a distal portion for fitting over the forearm of auser and a proximal portion for fitting over the upper arm of a user; ahinge mechanism comprising a distal segment, a proximal segment and apivot for pivotally connecting said distal segment and said proximalsegment, said distal segment of said hinge mechanism being mounted tosaid distal portion of said brace body and said proximal segment of saidhinge mechanism being mounted to said proximal portion of said bracebody; a pivot cable guide mounted to the anterior portion of said pivot;an upper arm cable guide mounted to at least one of said proximalsegment of said hinge mechanism and said proximal portion of said bracebody, said upper arm cable guide being configured to change thedirection of a cable extending through said upper arm cable guide; anulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide mounted to said brace bodyand configured to direct a cable extending through said ulnar collateralligament (UCL) cable guide over the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) andtoward said distal portion of said brace body; and a cable having afirst end and a second end; said first end of said cable being mountedto said distal segment of said hinge mechanism, said second end of saidcable being mounted to said distal portion of said brace body, and saidcable being routed proximally along said distal segment of said hingemechanism, through said pivot cable guide, proximally along saidproximal segment of said hinge mechanism, through said upper arm cableguide, and through said ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide;wherein, when said anatomical brace is mounted to the arm of a user sothat said distal portion of said brace body is secured to the forearm ofthe user, and said proximal portion of said brace body is secured to theupper arm of the user, and when the elbow thereafter moves to fullextension, said cable is tensioned, whereby to apply a force to theulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the user, and when the elbowthereafter moves to full flexion, said cable is relaxed, so that theforce applied to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is released.
 2. Ananatomical brace according to claim 1 wherein said cable comprises anon-elastic first segment and an elastic second segment.
 3. Ananatomical brace according to claim 2 wherein said non-elastic firstsegment is mounted to said distal segment of said hinge mechanism, andsaid elastic second segment is mounted to said distal portion of saidbrace body.
 4. An anatomical brace according to claim 3 wherein saidnon-elastic first segment is connected to said elastic second segmentwith a connector, such that said elastic second segment can be replacedby another elastic second segment having different attributes.
 5. Ananatomical brace according to claim 4 wherein said different attributescomprise at least one from the group consisting of elasticity andtensile strength.
 6. An anatomical brace according to claim 5 whereinsaid connector comprises a tension sensor for detecting the tension atsaid connector.
 7. An anatomical brace according to claim 6 wherein saidtension sensor is configured to communicate the tension detected at saidconnector to another device.
 8. An anatomical brace according to claim 7wherein said tension sensor is configured to wirelessly communicate thetension detected at said connector to another device.
 9. An anatomicalbrace according to claim 7 wherein said another device comprises onefrom the group consisting of a smartphone, a smartwatch, a tablet and alaptop.
 10. An anatomical brace according to claim 1 wherein said bracebody comprises a tube.
 11. An anatomical brace according to claim 10wherein said tube is formed out of a flexible material selected from thegroup consisting of a woven fabric and a synthetic rubber.
 12. Ananatomical brace according to claim 11 wherein an opening is formed insaid tube in the region of the antecubital area.
 13. An anatomical braceaccording to claim 1 wherein said first end of said cable is adjustablymounted to said distal segment of said hinge mechanism.
 14. Ananatomical brace according to claim 13 wherein said first end of saidcable is adjustably mounted to said distal segment of said hingemechanism by means of a rail and a fixation element.
 15. An anatomicalbrace according to claim 1 wherein said second end of said cable isadjustably mounted to said distal portion of said brace body.
 16. Ananatomical brace according to claim 15 wherein said second end of saidcable is adjustably mounted to said distal portion of said brace body bymeans of a hook-and-mesh fastener.
 17. An anatomical brace according toclaim 1 wherein said pivot comprises an offset cam for increasingtensioning of said cable during elbow extension and increasing unloadingof the tension during elbow flexion.
 18. An anatomical brace accordingto claim 1 wherein said pivot comprises an off-center pivot point forincreasing tensioning of said cable during elbow extension andincreasing unloading of the tension during elbow flexion.
 19. Ananatomical brace for dynamically stabilizing the elbow during elbowarticulation, said anatomical brace comprising: a brace body comprisinga distal portion for fitting over the forearm of a user and a proximalportion for fitting over the upper arm of a user; a hinge mechanismcomprising a distal segment, a proximal segment and a pivot forpivotally connecting said distal segment and said proximal segment, saiddistal segment of said hinge mechanism being mounted to said distalportion of said brace body and said proximal segment of said hingemechanism being mounted to said proximal portion of said brace body; apivot cable guide mounted to the posterior portion of said pivot; anupper arm cable guide mounted to at least one of said proximal segmentof said hinge mechanism and said proximal portion of said brace body,said upper arm cable guide being configured to change the direction of acable extending through said upper arm cable guide; an ulnar collateralligament (UCL) cable guide mounted to said brace body and configured todirect a cable extending through said ulnar collateral ligament (UCL)cable guide over the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) and toward saiddistal portion of said brace body; a cable having a first end and asecond end; said first end of said cable being mounted to said distalsegment of said hinge mechanism, said second end of said cable beingmounted to said distal portion of said brace body, and said cable beingrouted proximally along said distal segment of said hinge mechanism,through said pivot cable guide, proximally along said proximal segmentof said hinge mechanism, through said upper arm cable guide, and throughsaid ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide; a limiter cable guidemounted to the anterior portion of said pivot; and a limiter cablehaving a first end and a second end; said first end of said limitercable being mounted to said distal segment of said hinge mechanism, saidsecond end of said limiter cable being mounted to said proximal segmentof said hinge mechanism, and said limiter cable being routed throughsaid limiter cable guide; wherein, when said anatomical brace is mountedto the arm of a user so that said distal portion of said brace body issecured to the forearm of the user, and said proximal portion of saidbrace body is secured to the upper arm of the user, and when the elbowthereafter moves to full extension, said cable is tensioned, whereby toapply a force to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the user, andwhen the elbow thereafter moves to full flexion, said cable is relaxed,so that the force applied to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) isreleased.
 20. A method for dynamically stabilizing the elbow duringelbow articulation, said method comprising: providing an anatomicalbrace, said anatomical brace comprising: a brace body comprising adistal portion for fitting over the forearm of a user and a proximalportion for fitting over the upper arm of a user; a hinge mechanismcomprising a distal segment, a proximal segment and a pivot forpivotally connecting said distal segment and said proximal segment, saiddistal segment of said hinge mechanism being mounted to said distalportion of said brace body and said proximal segment of said hingemechanism being mounted to said proximal portion of said brace body; apivot cable guide mounted to the anterior portion of said pivot; anupper arm cable guide mounted to at least one of said proximal segmentof said hinge mechanism and said proximal portion of said brace body,said upper arm cable guide being configured to change the direction of acable extending through said upper arm cable guide; an ulnar collateralligament (UCL) cable guide mounted to said brace body and configured todirect a cable extending through said ulnar collateral ligament (UCL)cable guide over the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) and toward saiddistal portion of said brace body; and a cable having a first end and asecond end; said first end of said cable being mounted to said distalsegment of said hinge mechanism, said second end of said cable beingmounted to said distal portion of said brace body, and said cable beingrouted proximally along said distal segment of said hinge mechanism,through said pivot cable guide, proximally along said proximal segmentof said hinge mechanism, through said upper arm cable guide, and throughsaid ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide; wherein, when saidanatomical brace is mounted to the arm of a user so that said distalportion of said brace body is secured to the forearm of the user, andsaid proximal portion of said brace body is secured to the upper arm ofthe user, and when the elbow thereafter moves to full extension, saidcable is tensioned, whereby to apply a force to the ulnar collateralligament (UCL) of the user, and when the elbow thereafter moves to fullflexion, said cable is relaxed, so that the force applied to the ulnarcollateral ligament (UCL) is released; fitting said distal portion ofsaid brace body over the forearm of a user and said proximal portion ofsaid brace body over the upper arm of a user; positioning said first endof said cable to said distal segment of said hinge mechanism, andpositioning said second end of said cable to said distal portion of saidbrace body; and articulating the elbow.
 21. A method according to claim20: wherein said cable comprises a non-elastic first segment and anelastic second segment; wherein said non-elastic first segment ismounted to said distal segment of said hinge mechanism, and said elasticsecond segment is mounted to said distal portion of said brace body;wherein said non-elastic first segment is connected to said elasticsecond segment with a connector; and further wherein after articulatingthe elbow, said elastic second segment is replaced by another elasticsecond segment having different attributes.
 22. A method according toclaim 21 wherein said connector comprises a tension sensor for detectingthe tension at said connector, and further wherein said elastic secondsegment is replaced by another elastic second segment having differentattributes after said tension sensor detects a tension.
 23. A method fordynamically stabilizing the elbow during elbow articulation, said methodcomprising: providing an anatomical brace, said anatomical bracecomprising: a brace body comprising a distal portion for fitting overthe forearm of a user and a proximal portion for fitting over the upperarm of a user; a hinge mechanism comprising a distal segment, a proximalsegment and a pivot for pivotally connecting said distal segment andsaid proximal segment, said distal segment of said hinge mechanism beingmounted to said distal portion of said brace body and said proximalsegment of said hinge mechanism being mounted to said proximal portionof said brace body; a pivot cable guide mounted to the posterior portionof said pivot; an upper arm cable guide mounted to at least one of saidproximal segment of said hinge mechanism and said proximal portion ofsaid brace body, said upper arm cable guide being configured to changethe direction of a cable extending through said upper arm cable guide;an ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide mounted to said bracebody and configured to direct a cable extending through said ulnarcollateral ligament (UCL) cable guide over the ulnar collateral ligament(UCL) and toward said distal portion of said brace body; a cable havinga first end and a second end; said first end of said cable being mountedto said distal segment of said hinge mechanism, said second end of saidcable being mounted to said distal portion of said brace body, and saidcable being routed proximally along said distal segment of said hingemechanism, through said pivot cable guide, proximally along saidproximal segment of said hinge mechanism, through said upper arm cableguide, and through said ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) cable guide; alimiter cable guide mounted to the anterior portion of said pivot; and alimiter cable having a first end and a second end; said first end ofsaid limiter cable being mounted to said distal segment of said hingemechanism, said second end of said limiter cable being mounted to saidproximal segment of said hinge mechanism, and said limiter cable beingrouted through said limiter cable guide; wherein, when said anatomicalbrace is mounted to the arm of a user so that said distal portion ofsaid brace body is secured to the forearm of the user, and said proximalportion of said brace body is secured to the upper arm of the user, andwhen the elbow thereafter moves to full extension, said cable istensioned, whereby to apply a force to the ulnar collateral ligament(UCL) of the user, and when the elbow thereafter moves to full flexion,said cable is relaxed, so that the force applied to the ulnar collateralligament (UCL) is released; fitting said distal portion of said bracebody over the forearm of a user and said proximal portion of said bracebody over the upper arm of a user; positioning said first end of saidcable to said distal segment of said hinge mechanism, and positioningsaid second end of said cable to said distal portion of said brace body,and positioning said first end of said limiter cable to said distalsegment of said hinge mechanism, and positioning said second end of saidlimiter cable to said proximal segment of said hinge mechanism; andarticulating the elbow.